Empowered youth are the cornerstone of positive social change. Recognizing this, we recently kicked off a dynamic training on Social Accountability and Advocacy at Wilsen Hotels, equipping young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to influence programs and policies that affect their lives and communities.

Training with Purpose

The training is being conducted in partnership with Uganda AIDS Commission (@UgandaAIDSCOMM) and Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (@Mglsd_UG). Its goal is to strengthen youth engagement in governance, health advocacy, and community development, ensuring that adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) have a seat at the table where decisions are made.

Day One Highlights

Yesterday, participants delved into key areas including:

• Social accountability: Understanding how to monitor and hold service providers and government programs accountable for delivering quality services.
• Youth participation in government programs: Exploring avenues for meaningful engagement and influence in public policy and programs.
• HIV and SRHR: Equipping youth with accurate information to advocate for better sexual and reproductive health services in their communities.
• Effective communication: Building skills to clearly express concerns, share feedback, and influence decision-makers.

These sessions provided both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, empowering youth to become proactive advocates for change. Participants engaged in interactive discussions, role plays, and scenario-based exercises, making the learning experience both engaging and applicable to real-world situations.

Building a Generation of Change-Makers

Training youth in social accountability and advocacy ensures that they are not passive recipients of policies but active participants shaping programs that affect their lives. Equipped with these tools, young leaders can influence better governance, push for improved health services, and champion gender equality and youth empowerment.

Moving Forward

The energy and commitment displayed by youth leaders at Wilsen Hotels are a testament to their potential to drive meaningful change. Through continued mentorship, skill-building, and community engagement, these young advocates will ensure that services, policies, and programs truly respond to the needs of AGYW and their peers.

When youth rise, communities thrive. By investing in leadership and advocacy skills today, we are building a future where adolescent voices are heard, respected, and acted upon.https://x.com/NaguruC/status/1970769102189854983